Turkey wants missiles from U.S.

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ANKARA, Turkey, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- Turkey wants to buy 117 air-to-air missiles from the United States to strengthen its air defense capabilities, a U.S. agency said.

The U.S. Defense Department's Security Co-operation Agency said Monday it had notified Congress of the possible sale of Sidewinder missiles and associated equipment to Turkey for an estimated $140 million, the Turkish daily Today's Zaman reported.

Turkey has requested 117 AIM-9X-2 Sidewinder Block II all-up-round missiles, six AIM-9X-2 Block II Tactical Guidance units, six dummy air training missiles, 130 LAU-129 launchers, containers, missile support and test equipment, spare and repair parts, personnel training and training equipment, and logistical support Today's Zaman said.

The agency has assured Congress the proposed sale of the weapons to Turkey will not alter the basic military balance in the region, the paper said.